Review Roundup: Revised HOLLER IF YA HEAR ME at True Colors Theatre Company

Inspired by the music and lyrics of late rapper Tupac Shakur, HOLLER IF YA HEAR ME brings to life the music of one of the 20th century's most influential and culturally prominent voices. Peek into a window of urban realities as an inner city family struggles for peace in this non-biographical musical about friendship, family, revenge, change, and hope. The show runs through October 8 at True Colors Theatre Company.

HOLLER IF YOU HEAR ME has a book by Todd Kreidler and music by Tupac Shakur, with director by Kenny Leon, musical director Matthew Head, and choreographer Jared Grimes.

The cast stars Rob Demery as John, Markelle Gay as Darius, Theresa Hightower as Mrs. Weston, Wonza Johnson as Anthony, Rob Lawhon as Griffy, Durrell Lyons as Nunn, Garrett Turner as Vertus, D Woods as Corinne, and Kennedy Blanchard as Kamilah. The cast also features Eddie Bradley Jr., Gary Beauford, Anthony Campbell, Racquel Charles, Antavius Ellison, Ashlee Brie Gillum, Cory Hartzol, Brittany Inge, Nagerah Munajj, Chani Maisonet, DerRick Robertson, and Lisa Rozier.

Let's see what the critics had to say!

Wendell Brock, My AJC: Casting Hightower was a good move, though. Mrs. Weston is not a terribly big or nuanced role, but Hightower imbues the character with grace and dignity. Eddie Bradley Jr. finds the pathos in the lurching anguish of the Street Preacher... "Holler if Ya Hear Me," for whatever reason, did not have a long life on Broadway. For those of us who didn't get a look then, seeing it in Atlanta is kind of a gift. Shakur knew that change would be a long time coming. More than two decades after his death, it's sad to see that he was right.

Justin Cole Adams, BroadwayWorld: Through choreography, scenic design, lighting and exceptional casting choices, Kenny Leon's True Colors Theatre Company presents the story with the utmost integrity. Jared Grimes has created choreography that surpasses expectations and captures the essence of the story, community and character. I could not have been more pleased with this part of the show... Overall, the show radiates a positive message that you can overcome any obstacle. It proves that even though the circumstances might be about a particular race or community, humans all have the same emotional experiences.

Photo: Bill Ransom and Carey Williams